Agricultural Economist

Placements24; Sandton; Hybrid; ZAR 1,000,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a highly analytical Agricultural Economist to join a strategic team in Sandton, Gauteng. The role involves researching economic drivers, forecasting market trends, and advising on the financial viability of agricultural ventures.

A hybrid work model in Gauteng will enable focused in-office analysis with site visits as needed. The ideal candidate has 5+ years in agricultural economics or related fields, strong econometric skills (Stata, R, EViews), and proven ability to

Qualifications

• Advanced degree in agricultural economics or related field.
• Minimum 5 years in agricultural economics or economic consulting.
• Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills.
• Experience building complex economic models and forecasts.
• Excellent written and verbal communication; experience with policy briefs.

Responsibilities

• Conduct economic research on agricultural markets, production costs, and commodity prices.
• Develop economic models and forecasts to predict market trends and impacts on the sector.
• Analyze financial performance of agricultural businesses and projects; identify profitability and investment opportunities.
• Advise on agricultural policy, trade, and regulatory issues from an economic perspective.
• Prepare economic reports, presentations, and briefs for management and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate economic feasibility of new agricultural ventures and investments.

Skills

Quantitative analysis

Econometrics

Communication skills

Report writing

Education

Master's or PhD in Agricultural Economics / Economics / Finance

Tools

Stata

R

EViews

Job description

About the Role

Our client seeks a highly analytical and insightful Agricultural Economist to join their strategic team based in Sandton, Gauteng. This role is integral to understanding and advising on the economic drivers, market trends, and financial viability of agricultural enterprises and the broader agricultural sector. You will conduct economic research, develop forecasts, and provide expert recommendations to support business strategy, investment decisions, and policy analysis. The position offers a hybrid work model, allowing for focused analysis in the office and strategic engagement, including potential site visits or stakeholder meetings, within Gauteng.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct economic research and analysis on agricultural markets, production costs, and commodity prices.
• Develop economic models and forecasts to predict market trends and potential impacts on the agricultural sector.
• Analyze the financial performance of agricultural businesses and projects, providing insights on profitability and investment opportunities.
• Advise on agricultural policy, trade, and regulatory issues from an economic perspective.
• Prepare comprehensive economic reports, presentations, and briefs for management and external stakeholders.
• Evaluate the economic feasibility of new agricultural ventures and investments.
• Collaborate with agronomists, operations managers, and other professionals to integrate economic insights into operational strategies.
• Stay abreast of global and local economic developments affecting the agricultural industry.
• Contribute to strategic planning and decision-making processes related to agribusiness.

Requirements

• A Master's or PhD degree in Agricultural Economics, Economics, Finance, or a related quantitative field.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in agricultural economics, financial analysis, or economic consulting within the agribusiness sector.
• Strong quantitative and statistical analysis skills, with proficiency in econometrics and statistical software ("e.g., Stata, R, EViews").
• Excellent understanding of agricultural markets, supply chains, and economic principles.
• Proven ability to develop complex economic models and forecasts.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex data clearly and persuasively.
• Experience in preparing economic reports and policy briefs.
• Ability to work independently and effectively in a hybrid work setting.
• A valid driver's license and willingness to travel as needed within Sandton, Gauteng.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary commensurate with experience and expertise, along with a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid and a retirement fund. This role provides excellent opportunities for professional growth, research, and contributing to significant strategic decisions within the agricultural domain. The hybrid work model offers flexibility and work-life balance. Be a key advisor in the economic landscape of agriculture in Gauteng.